By Andi Anderson
In the week ending October 6, 2024, farmers in Illinois enjoyed 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork, contributing to steady progress in the corn and soybean harvest. Statewide, the average temperature reached 65.7°F, which was 6.3°F above the seasonal average.
Despite these warmer conditions, precipitation was minimal, with the state receiving only 0.14 inches of rain—0.61 inches below the average for this time of year.
Topsoil moisture levels were rated 6 percent very short, 32 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern, with 8 percent very short, 39 percent short, 52 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. These moisture levels have played a key role in how well crops are faring this season.
Corn maturation has reached 94 percent, significantly ahead of the 5-year average of 82 percent. As for the corn harvest, 32 percent of the crop has been harvested, aligning closely with the 5-year average of 30 percent.
The condition of the corn crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 20 percent excellent.
Soybeans are also seeing significant progress, with 90 percent of plants dropping leaves compared to the 5-year average of 83 percent. Harvest is well underway, with 42 percent of soybeans harvested, compared to the 5-year average of 28 percent.
The soybean crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 14 percent excellent.
Winter wheat planting reached 18 percent, slightly behind the 5-year average of 21 percent, while 6 percent of winter wheat has emerged, slightly ahead of the 5-year average of 4 percent.
These conditions reflect the steady pace of crop growth and harvest, supported by favorable weather patterns across Illinois.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dmaroscar
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Harvesting